What Causes Low Libido in Men?

Updated on April 24, 2022

Low libido is one of those red flags that can’t be ignored. It’s a sign that something isn’t going quite right behind the scenes, and the implications can be dire for relationships and general enjoyment of life. 

Besides, libido is more than just sexual desire – it’s the drive and energy that makes men who they are. That’s why the word “impotent” has a broader definition beyond the bedroom.

Let’s explore a few reasons why low libido in men can occur, along with some healthy, sustainable solutions.

Aging and Hormones

Nothing lasts forever, and there’s no beating the fact that aging has a negative impact on libido. After the age of 30, men experience a 1% decline in testosterone each year, impacting their desire and performance.

That’s why men should be more conscious of their T levels moving forward in life (get bloodwork) and be sure to keep those hormones balanced optimally into middle age and beyond.

Stress and Anxiety

Our modern world is stressful, no doubt, even if you’ve got a secure job and relationship. The effects of stress have come into the spotlight in recent years, and it’s clear that being stressed out all the time makes men less willing (and able) to perform in the bedroom.

Luckily, healthy stress management strategies like exercise and relaxation can restore your libido after a rollercoaster week and get you right back in the game.

Sexual Burnout

Some of the most sexually motivated men just need a break from the action from time to time. If you or your partner are together every day for weeks or months at a time, there is bound to be a dip in performance.

Sometimes, it’s better to take a break from the bedroom activities and let desire replenish naturally.

Health Conditions

There’s always the possibility of a hidden health condition impacting your sex drive, whether it’s something to do with blood pressure, circulation, metabolic issues, or otherwise.

Before you jump on the ED pills and put yourself at unnecessary risk, try to get to the bottom of the issue with your doctor and fix any health conditions that may be impacting libido.

Mental health conditions related to serotonin or dopamine regulation can also result in reduced libido, so don’t overlook that possibility.

Bad Diet

It should be no surprise that the Standard American Diet (SAD) does not bode well for the male libido. We’re talking about the burgers, fries, sugary sodas, and candy bars that have become the unfortunate pillars of our cuisine.

On the other hand, there are many so-called “health foods” that have little nutritional content beyond soy, corn, and processed fillers. Eating nothing but leafy greens will destroy your libido entirely.

The truth is that protein and saturated fat fuel testosterone, and these should be the priorities. 

Drugs and Alcohol

That one-glass-of-wine-a-day thing might be true, but let’s be honest – most guys are drinking beer, bourbon, and other empty-calorie beverages that end up stored as fat.

Alcohol also has the effect of depressing the nervous system, which is why men often find themselves unable to perform in crunch time. If you’re serious about getting your libido back in gear, do yourself a favor and skip the alcohol on most days.

Lack of Exercise

Sedentary lifestyles are the norm, so it’s no wonder why men struggle with libido in the era of office chairs and long commutes. Inactivity is terrible for the sex drive, however, so get that exercise regimen in motion if you’ve been slacking. 

Heavy weights and compound movements are the best testosterone boosters, but don’t forget to add some cardio and calisthenics to stay in good overall shape. 

Poor Sleep

So much of the population is chronically sleep-deprived due to overstimulation, sugar and caffeine intake, and other factors. If your libido is dipping, it may be because you just haven’t slept well in weeks. 

The science of sleep is becoming more clear, so look into how you can improve your sleep hygiene and your drive will likely respond in turn. 

Your Libido Boosting Game Plan

Combine all the above factors, then add compounding effects like relationship strain and body image issues, and it’s going to be bad news for any man’s sex drive.

Thankfully, a comprehensive strategy can be applied right now to set yourself back on track, and it all starts with a decision. Address the issues one-by-one and look into supplementary treatments like test boosters or TRT for that extra oomph. 

Leveling up your libido won’t be achieved overnight, but it can certainly happen with deliberate lifestyle adjustments in time. Treat this like the serious condition that it is, and use all the tools at your disposal to get the results you want.

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